Scientific Name
Lychnis chalcedonica
Common Name
Maltese cross

Characteristics

Season
late spring to early summer
Height
18-24 inches
Hardiness
USDA Hardiness Zone 6-8
Flower Color
brilliant scarlet
Soil
moist, well drained, fertile soil
Exposure
partial shade to full sun
Propagation
division spring or fall, seed
North Carolina Regions
Mountains, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Comments
A number of hybrids of Lychnis occur, offering variation in plant height and flower color. Mulch well in winter in the higher mountain areas. The brilliant scarlet flowers of Maltese cross are very eye catching in the garden.
Origin
Russia

Prepared by: orginally by Alice B. Russell, retired Extension Specialist, NC State University
                     maintained and expanded by Erv Evans, Consumer Horticulturist, NC State University

Images: ©Alice B. Russell and Erv Evans

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